Benue Introduces Strict Waterway Safety Measures after Boat Tragedy
Benue Introduces Strict Waterway Safety Measures after Boat Tragedy
Following the tragic River Buruku boat accident that killed six students, the Benue State Government has introduced strict new safety measures. Security Adviser Joseph Har launched the crackdown on Friday, targeting riverine areas like Buruku, Guma, and Agatu to prevent future mishaps.
New regulations developed with local authorities and traditional councils now mandate safety standards for all commuters. Most notably, life jackets are now compulsory for every passenger, and boat operators are strictly forbidden from carrying more than one vehicle at a time to avoid dangerous overloading.
To enhance safety, the state has set a daily 8:00 p.m. cutoff for all river travel. This measure aims to eliminate perilous nocturnal journeys. To ensure total compliance with these operational hours, access roads on both riverbanks will be barricaded every night.
In the statement, Har said, “The new protocols establish a rigorous safety standard for all river commuters and operators. Under the revised guidelines, the use of life jackets is now strictly mandatory for all passengers, while boat operators are prohibited from carrying more than one vehicle at a time to prevent overloading.”
The life jacket mandate officially begins on February 1, 2024, giving operators time to acquire equipment. Har noted that previous safety gear had been vandalized and urged local governments and private donors to help provide new jackets to protect those relying on water transport.
A joint enforcement team involving the Police, DSS, NIWA, and Civil Protection Guards will now monitor the waterways. This unified oversight is intended to ensure strict adherence to the new standards and prevent further loss of life across the state.
